Mayor's war chest nets $479K

Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann's campaign for re-election is off to a strong start, after collecting almost $500,000 in the first six months of this year for a race that still is 16 months away.

Hannemann collected $479,858, ending the most recent reporting period with $1.494 million on hand and no debt, according to records filed yesterday with the state Campaign Spending Commission.

CAMPAIGN FINANCES

Incumbent Mayor Mufi Hannemann is the only declared candidate for next year's Honolulu mayor's race. A look at his campaign finances in the first six months of 2007:
» Start: $1,058,130
» Raised: $479,858
» Spent: $43,789
» Cash on hand: $1,494,199
» Debts: $0

Source: State Campaign Spending Commission

"For one, it's a show of strength," said University of Hawaii political scientist Neal Milner. "If you can get a large head start in fundraising, it reduces the chances of someone else getting into the race.

"This makes a statement that 'I'm very formidable.' "

Hannemann so far is the only declared candidate for the 2008 Honolulu mayor's race. His campaign was kick-started in June with a $25-per-person stew dinner fundraiser that drew more than 3,500 supporters.

Among other notable candidates, Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, who has declared his intention to run for governor in 2010, collected $585,787 since January, and has $617,522 on hand.

There are no other declared candidates for governor in 2010.

Three Honolulu city councilmen who plan to seek the lieutenant governor's office in three years have not yet done any major fundraising in 2007.

Donovan Dela Cruz, Charles Djou and Rod Tam are limited from seeking another term on the Council. Djou listed $225 raised so far in 2007, followed by the Tam with $136 and Dela Cruz with $72.

All still have sizable amounts from previous campaigns that can be transferred to run for state office, led by Djou ($141,042), followed by Dela Cruz ($61,537) and Tam ($51,085).

The most recent campaign reporting period covers Jan. 1 through June 30.